Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"I served with the 4 th recon in Iraq fallujiah when this happened I was in the psd which is where ever the kolonel wanted to go we would drive him anyways I met him at camp bullies in San Antonio he was so funny and outspoken he called me Marty short for Martinez and I knew he used to be a youth pastor and he just was fun to be around him he was a jokester I also meet kinchen as well they were both hard chargers and we will never forget them semper fi and hooooooooooorah"
Mickey Martinez of San Antonio tx

"family cpl steven p gill i will to.come to visit you please contact me amber chantal noel fleman 123 rue joseph coosemans 1030 bruxelles belgium amber"
amber of bruxelles

"i will to contact me for to visit you family of steven p gill my adress chantal a noel fleman 123 rue joseph coosemans 1030 bruxelles belgium europ thank i m descendant u s marine come ww1 and 2 belgium i will to come to you"
amber fleman of bruxelles belgium

"Memorial Day 2016 - thinking of you, Steven, and your sacrifice but I know you felt called and you wouldn't have it any other way. Thank you. I also think if your Mom. I'm glad she is with you and at peace now too."
Karen Cupples of Round Rock, TX

"Rose, it's been nearly ten years since we lost Steven. I haven't forgotten your sacrifice. I pray God grants you peace.

In the interim, my daughter Alexandra, completed a term of enlistment in the USMC. They don't allow women in combat, but as an armorer, she trained many marines how to shoot, and shoot well; and kept their weapons in first class condition. I like to think that we have, in a small way, helped to balance the matter.

Your neighbor -"
Karl Falken of Baytown, Texas

"Rose,
I think of Steven And you often,I pray for you every time he comes to mind.Roger ( corpsman in his battalion ) talks about how selfless Steven was even at his last breath
Today Memorial day 2014 we remember him and pray that God continues to comfort your heart until you see him again.
I remember you saying that when he left he told you " I will see you in September, or I will see you in Heavan."
Ghada Erickson of Corsicana,Texas

"i went to church with Steven he was a great guy. never forgotten"
melinda of Austin Tx

"I knew Steven when I attended Concordia University. We were in Sociology together and after class we would head back to the dorms, dip, debate or watch TV until our next class. He was a good man, very intelligent and a true passion for God and his Country. My sincerist apologies to the family of Steven Gill, a warrior at heart, he will forever be missed."
Nathan of Florida

"I knew Steven when I attended Concordia University. We were in Sociology together and after class we would head back to the dorms, dip, debate or watch TV until our next class. He was a good man, very intelligent and a true passion for God and his Country. My sincerist apologies to the family of Steven Gill, a warrior at heart, he will forever be missed."
Nathan of Florida

"well Steven, this old Marine has adopted your Boston Terrier Harley. We gave him the honorary rank of Sgt. last week we took him to San Antone and stopped by your resting place. It was like he really knew you were there, he rolled on the ground in front of you then he just laid his head down and watched you, cause i knew then that you were watching him. i promise as one Marine to another to always take care of Harley, always, whatever it takes. Semper Fi, John"
John Manuel of Burnet texas,

"Steven was one of my best friends in high school and college years. He joined the Marine Corps shortly after me post 9-11. We loved the Corps and lived a Marine's life together in spirit. He ran a tough mission and sacrificed it all. On this special day-I remember our life together. Love you brother, Semper Fi, Lcpl Justin Borden."
Justin Borden of Austin, TX

"To Steven's family:
Your son's letter in NEWSWEEK touched me deeply and inspired a piece of music which I hope honors your son's memory. With your permission, I would like to send you the CD? You may contact me at 214-321-3651 or email richwit@sbcglobal.net.
Respectfully,
Mary Alice Rich"
Mary Alice Rich of Dallas, TX

"June 9, 2008
To the family of Cpl. Steven P. Gill:
Steven gave the ultimate sacrifice and will be held in the hearts of Americans forever. I cannot and will not let our fallen heroes be forgotten. My deepest sympathy to you. "Some gave all."
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org"
Peggy Childers of Carson City, NV

"Aunt Rosie, Uncle Billy , Primo James

I miss Steven a lot. We think and remember him often. He will never be forgotten. Steven is our hero."
Timothy Gill of San Antonio,TX

"Dear Gill Family,
I recently read about your son in the Newsweek magazine. Of all the stories, yours touched me the most. First, I am so sorry to learn of your son's death. Sacrificing his life for mine and my family's safety makes me sad. YOur son's story touched me because he is about the age of my youngest son. Like Steven, Andy has a great love for the Lord and sharing that love with young people. Andy is a church planter here in South Dakota. Because of your son's sacrifice, Andy can continue to share Christ with others. I truly believe because of your son's sacrifice and the story in the Newsweek, that Steven has made a great impact on many young people. Newsweek mentioned his love for Christ. Steven is sharing that love now through his death. There are no words to express to your family that could adquately express my sorrow and my thankfulness for all your sacrifice so that our nation is safe."
Thresea Wright of Wentworth, SD

"He was an inspiration to everyone around him, and he will never be forgotten."
Lauren of Austin,Texas

"I am praying for your family and have read the fine words of your courageous son. I will be reading them at church Sunday and praying for you. I would like to learn more about Steven."
Rev. Pat Bossio of Melvindale, Michigan

"To the family of: Steven P. Gill I am so sorry for the loss of your love one. My heart cries out for you in your grief and you have my thoughts and prayers. He died a hero defending freedom. May you have the peace and understanding that only comes from God. Prayerfully we will all meet in Heaven one day where we will rest in the arms of Jesus. If you need prayer or need someone to talk to, please call or write my pastor: Rev. John Pearrell 11677 Brown Bridge Rd., Covington, GA 30016. (770)787-1015. Your friend in Jesus Christ, Polly Ballew Covington,Ga"

"Rose, Bill and James,

Steven's loss has changed our lives as it has changed yours. We can never be the same without him. We loved him, we honor him, and we remember him -- not just today, but every day. He was part of our family, and he is with us constantly. We love you all, as we loved him. We grieve with you and share your sadness and loss...life will never be the same without Steven. He is our hero, and we will continue to tell his story."
Sherilyn, Ron and Scott Jones of Katy, Texas

"Mrs. Gill,

It was an honor to meet you in front of the White House today and have you join in singing "This Little Light of Mine". You show great strength and courage during this dark hour.

But, the light can never go out - for Steven or you and your family.

Charlie Jackson
Texans for Peace
charliej@texansforpeace.org"
Charlie Jackson of Pflugerville

"To the Gill family,
Although I didn't know your son, I feel for your loss. Today while visiting Ft. Sam Houston I saw your son's palce of rest. Today I paid him my respects for his ultimate sacrifice. May God Bless you and comfort you with precious memories."
Paul Harrison of Moyock, NC

"Congratulations to Ms. Rose Gill who completed the 2005 Marine Corps Marathon in Washington, DC with a time of 6:18:49. You dedicated your first marathon to your son's memory; and touched the soul of everyone who came to know you - the sprit of your son lives on in you!"
Kirk Hamlet of Arlington, VA

"To the Gill family,
We honor and celebrate the life of your beloved STEVEN. He will always be remembered as an American Hero.
STEVEN - our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. May the Angels watch over them as they begin to heal. Thank you for your service to our great nation. You are a brave Hero. Gods Speed."
---The Erwin Family of Oregon, United States of America

"My deepest sympathy is with you and your family. The loss of a son hurts beyond what words can express. I still struggle daily with the reality that my son is no longer here. May your family lean on each other and give comfort to each other during this time. Draw closer to to each other and God not away from. May Jesus give you peace and may the Holy Spirit comfort you."
The Proud Mother of LCpl Jerimiah C. Kinchen Killed in Iraq April 4, 2005 of Salcha, Alaska/ USA

"Dear Family of Steven Gill: I lost my son, Marine LCpl Chad Maynard, on June 15, 2005 in Ramadi. When I heard the news on the radio about your son, it was like I was reliving that day all over again. It's hard for me to type this even now. I'm so sorry for your loss. On the temporary head stone on my son's grave is the saying, "Not In Vain". That is truly what my son believed and what we, as his family, have to believe every day. Please know that I feel your pain and loss, and I cry with you. They say time eases the pain, and I guess they may be right, but with every new report, I feel the ache of missing my son so much. Always remember, you are not alone. There are others who love you and care about you and know exactly what you are going through. Thank you for your son and his service to us all."
Cindy Maynard, mother of Marine LCpl Chad Maynard and Marine Cpl Jacob Maynard of Kennewick, WA

"Rest in Peace Devil Dog
J and T USMC NC"

"To the family and friends of Corporal Steven P. Gill,

Those we hold most dear, never truly leave us. May you find comfort in love's everlasting connection.

In the Support section of this web site you will find links to many groups that support you at this crucial time. The Marine Comfort Quilt group would be honored to send a quilt to the next of kin. There are many, loving and caring Americans from all over the United States that will never forget the sacrifice that your loved one has made for our Freedom. Please use our link and register so we can send you our "Love Stitched Together."

Proud Marine Mom and Proud Member of Marine Comfort Quilts "
Sandra Moudy of Placentia, Ca USA

"To Steven's Family:
There are no words to express the sorrow we feel for your loss. May God bless you and help you through this time."
Dan and Meg of San Antonio, Texas

"The Salute


To those who have died,
And to those who have cried.
We Salute You.

To those who have lost,
Paid the ultimate cost.
We Salute You.

And to those who still serve,
The Red White and Blue.
Our grateful Nation,
Proudly Salutes You.""
Tom Balstad of West Warwick, RI

"We are deeply sorry for your loss. America will forever honor your Hero.
The Courage, Honor, and Valor that your Hero showed will always be remembered.
We are grateful for the sacrifice that was made and we will NEVER FORGET.
God Bless your family and please know that you are not alone.
All of our prayers are with you."
Jennifer and SSGT Larry Mays of Massillon, Ohio

"To the Gill Family, I wish to offer to you my deepest condolences. You have raised a fine young Marine who is now an all American Hero. Steven will always be remembered and honored. May God Bless you all and God Bless Steven."
Mary Ghaney of Brooklyn, New York

"God bless you and keep you safe from harm."
kevin of saskatoon, canada

"I was saddened to learn that we have yet lost another brave Texan. I am sure he is in heaven with the other Texans who valiantly gave their lives to include my brother, CPL Gary Walters. May you find the strength and comfort that can only from God."
Michele Carter of Germany

"My prayers are with the family and friends of "Gill". As I have lost a close marine to our family, my son David Mahula, has lost a good friend as well. I know he will be missed greatly.
Prayers for the family at this time. I can see where God couldn't wait any longer for him - one of the best. God Bless you."
Barbara Mahula McLeroy - family of CPL David Mahula, 4th Recon Iraq of San Antonio/Texas

"Dear Gill family,

I am very sorry to hear of the loss to your family. He is truely a courageous person, showing the uptmost bravery in combat. I had the chance to go to the army, but refused.

I often wonder what it would be like if i would have went, would i return?

I graduated from Round Rock High in 1998, and noticed that he was from Round Rock. again, i am in deep deep mourning for your entire family and the great loss you encountered by losing such a great person as Steven.

God will be with Steven hand in hand now and for eternity

sincerely,
Rusty Carver"
Rusty Carver of Mckinney, TX USA

"To the Gill Family-
I am very sorry to hear about your loss. Your son was such a great person to be around, and was always so uplifting. I met him in January when his unit became activated. Gill was a friend to my fiance, LCpl. Jerimiah Kinchen, whom was also killed in action. I don't know what it is like to lose a child, but I do know how it feels to lose someone you love vey much. Your entire family is in my thoughts and prayers, and keep in mind that Steven has joined his fellow fallen heroes in a much better place."
Bianca Cervantez of Floresville, Texas

"I offer my deepest condolences to the family and friends of Cpl. Steven Gill.

Brother,

Semper Fidelis and you will never be forgotten."
Mark Cruz of Los Angeles

"TO THE GILL FAMILY FROM THE WAHL FAMILY. STEVEN HAS NOT GIVEN HIS LIFE IN VAIN. STEVEN HAS TOUCHED THE HEARTS OF SO MANY. AMONG THOSE IN HIS COMMUNITY, FRIENDS, NEIGHBOR'S, HIS MILITARY SISTER'S, BROTHER'S, THOSE IN IRAQ AND ESPECIALLY HIS LOVING FAMILY. STEVEN IS MORE THEN A HERO! HE IS THE ELITE AMONG AMERICAN'S. ANSWERING THE CALL TO SERVE HIS COUNTRY. ONLY THOUSANDS DO OF MILLIONS OF AMERICAN'S. THAT IN IT'S SELF SPEAKS VOLUME'S TO THE INDIVIDUAL STEVEN WAS! HE WILL NEVER EVER BE FORGOTTEN, FOR HE IS REMEMBERED TODAY, TOMORROW AND ALWAYS. I REALIZE OUR SON'S DIDN'T KNOW ONE ANOTHER. TRUTH IS BOTH BROTHER'S IN THE MILITARY FAMILY.....WATCHING OVER ONE ANOTHER. NOW BOTH ARE TOGETHER. THAT IS SOME COMFORT TO MY HEART. THAT NO MATTER THE MISSION, IT'S OUR MISSION NOW. TO HONOR STEVEN AND ALL OUR FALLEN SOLDIER'S. MY HEART AND PRAYS ARE WITH STEVEN AND YOUR FAMILY. GOD BLESS!"
leonard t. wahl of VALLEY STREAM NY

"To Steven's Family and Friends:

On behalf of the Blanco-Caldas family, we send our sincerest condolences. We share the same loss ... the same pain. Our prayers are with you in this most difficult time and we thank you for your soldier's bravery and sacrifice as we mourn the loss of yet another of Texas' sons. Our boys are truly heroes!

By His Grace,

Gloria Caldas
Proud Mother of Fallen Hero
Capt. Ernesto M. Blanco-Caldas
"The Big Ern", 82nd Airborne
KIA Iraq 12/28/2003.
San Antonio, Texas
gcaldas48@aol.com"

"To the Gill Family, I wish to offer my deeepest condolences to you. You have raised a fine young Marine who is a true American Hero. Your Steven will always be remembered and honored. May God Bless you all."
Mary Ghaney of Brooklyn, New York

"We Will NEVER FORGET !"
Please KNOW so many people share your sadness, and we are remembering your family in your loss and your deep grief. Your HERO, Steven will be remembered by name. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. God Bless you ALWAYS. Pat & Sandi Breckenridge from Montana "

"Thank you Steven Gill, you will not be forgotten. Your bravery goes beyond words. I want to express my deepest gratitude for your sacrifice. To the family and friends, my prayers and deep condolences in your loss. May God strengthen you from knowing that fellow Americans and people around the world care about you and grieve with you in your loss. God bless you all. A very appreciative fellow American,"
Leo Titus of Grayslake, Illinios

"To the family and friends of Cpl. Steven Gill:
May God's grace be with you during your time of grief. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you and we feel your loss and share in your sorrow. Bless Steven for the sacrifice he has made to make a better life for the rest of us."
The Ford Family of Wells, Nevada

"To the family and friends of Cpl. Steven Gill:
I am saddened by the loss of your loved one. He will always be remembered as a hero for fighting for freedom. I hope that this website will be a source of comfort and encouragement for you during this difficult time, and in the future as you recall the memories of Steven, who continues to live on in your heart."
Tim Rivera of Powder Springs, Georgia